Those two SA proofs totally hooked me. Got this 5 Shilling proof, with mintage of only 3360, and low survival rate in decent condition. Love them now!!!
Nice piece. I have one in my Silver Dollars of '60 collection. Here's some more info: 38.6 mm, 28.28 g and 50% silver. The 5 shilling coin was minted from 1947 to 1960, originally 80% silver then 50% starting in 1951. The 1960 issue features a special commemorative design marking the end of the Union of South Africa. The obverse shows the Union of South Africa arms; the figure of Hope representing the Colony of the Cape of Good Hope, Wildebeests for the Colony of Natal, the orange tree for the Orange Free State Republic and the wagon for the Transvaal; George Edward Kruger Gray design. The reverse shows the Union Buildings, seat of government in Pretoria with gardens in foreground; Hilda Mason design. In 1961 the country became the Republic of South Africa and adopted a decimalized currency based on the Rand.
Thanks for the history of the coin-- it is greatly appreciated. Since my primary orientation is US Silver coins, I am glad to learn more about World coinage.
Finished off January with this 2.5 Shilling toned proof. It is in an NGC fatty holder, graded PF 64. Scratches are on the slab, not the coin:
I have a 1948 5 shilling with toning, and two of the other different designs, I don't remember which years they are.
